Dividing Fractions
Lesson
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There are many ways to divide fractions:

 

In this lesson, you will explore the fifth method: Multiplying by a Reciprocal.   This is the most common method used to divide fractions.  It is used when measurement and partitioning are not easily done, and the denominators are not like.

 

So let's quickly review an important term:

reciprocal

sometimes called the multiplicative inverse-"switch" the fraction around- the numerator becomes the denominator and the denominator becomes the numerator!

Now the rule is simple:  to divide fractions, multiply by the reciprocal of the second number.  (4/3 is the reciprocal of 3/4, and 7/6 is the reciprocal of 6/7.)

Division Problem related Multiplication problem

Ready to Practice?

 
Topic Index | Grade 6 Math | Intermediate Test Prep | StudyZone

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